California’s Move Over law requires:
All vehicles to stay in the right lane at all times.
Trucks to use the left lane.
All vehicles to vacate the lane closest to an emergency vehicle that is stopped with its lights flashing.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: All vehicles to vacate the lane closest to an emergency vehicle that is stopped with its lights flashing.
California’s Move Over law, also known as California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 21809, is designed to enhance safety for emergency responders and other personnel working on the side of the road. This law requires drivers to change lanes and move away from any emergency vehicle that is stopped on the shoulder or in an adjacent lane with its lights flashing. The aim is to protect police officers, paramedics, fire personnel, tow truck operators, and others who are vulnerable while carrying out their duties.
When approaching a scene with emergency vehicles that have their lights on, drivers are mandated to move over to a lane that is not adjacent to the emergency vehicle whenever it is safe to do so. If changing lanes is not possible or would put others at risk, the law requires drivers to reduce their speed to a safe and reasonable level to help minimize the risk of a collision.
This law is crucial in preventing accidents and providing a safer working environment for first responders and road service workers. It helps reduce the number of incidents involving “struck-by” collisions, where an emergency responder or another worker is hit by a passing vehicle. Failure to adhere to this law can result in fines and penalties, and in some cases, if a violation leads to injury or death, additional legal consequences could follow.
The Move Over law has been implemented in many states across the United States, but California’s version emphasizes the responsibility of all drivers to exercise caution and take proactive measures to protect those who are operating in vulnerable positions on the roadside. By moving over or slowing down, drivers contribute to a safer road environment and help prevent potentially tragic accidents.